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Garden Route

22 March 2023 Media release:  Garden Route District hosts its 2nd Safer Schools Conference

Media release:  Garden Route District hosts its 2nd Safer Schools Conference

For Immediate Release
23 March 2023

On March 18, 2023, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) hosted the second Safer School Conference in Plettenberg Bay in collaboration with 7 b-municipalities, the Western Cape Department of Community Safety, and the South African Police Services (SAPS) and several school representatives – including learners and principals. There were also a few community organisations present, such as neighbourhood watches and community policing forums.

During the Safer School Conference, the hall was packed with delegates.

Safer Schools encompasses a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach, with numerous stakeholders working together to promote school safety and reduce the prevalence of violence. A game-changer objective of the event was to link schools with local police stations in order to raise awareness among children about crime and violence and their impact on individuals, families, and education..  Also, to influence, train, and equip learners, families, teachers, and community members with effective partnership knowledge that will encompass a holistic approach to how the school operates in terms of safety.

The interactive program of the day included addresses from a number of remarkable speakers, including GRDM’s Executive Mayor, Alderman Memory Booysen, who once again inspired learners with his own story of growth.  The other speakers also conveyed their messages, which included, the impact of substance abuse; crime at school; and gang-related issues, to the audience in an incredibly simple, but informative and understandable manner, encouraging participants to form a coalition with government and community stakeholders and reduce crime.

A speech by former prisoner Micheal Dlamini, who served over forty years in prison, was one of the highlights of the conference. Dlamini urged children to listen to their parents as well as elders in the community when they say NO. Also, they choose their friends wisely. “Gangsterism is not easy, and prisons are not good. Stop disrespecting your teachers – STOP bad habits.”

During the second segment of the program, there was much excitement and it was clear that the topics were something school-goers encountered every day. Five break-away groups were created addressing the following topics:

–  Social media impact

–  Impact of substance abuse

–  Gender-based violence

–  Gang-related issues

–  Sexual crimes and teenage pregnancies

All the learners present formed part of the different groups and ‘grow-ups’ were amazed by the knowledge, eagerness and confidence they portrayed.  Also, the curiosity in asking questions and feedback provided, was also a clear sign that the message reached them and they learned a lot through the conference.

During the closing remarks and vote of thanks, it was evident that partnerships are essential for addressing the topics discussed. Also that the success of this type of program depends on the cooperation of all stakeholders, from the government to sector departments, to communities and their leaders.  The importance of parenting also came to the fore, and the organisers were tasked with developing a program that would equip parents with the tools they need to succeed. The group discussions also identified other issues that needed to be addressed in future programmes that arose as shortcomings.  In order to ensure the success of the event, the outcomes of the day need to be channeled to the correct people.  In conclusion, the audience was reminded that a lot of knowledge was placed in their hands during the event, but that each person has a choice, and it is up to them to do the right thing with it.

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17 March 2023 Media Release: Update 2 on the construction of the Garden Route District Municipality Fire Station

Media Release: Update 2 on the construction of the Garden Route District Municipality Fire Station

For immediate release
17 March 2023

The newly constructed Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire Station has progressed relatively well despite the good rains influencing the excavated trenches which were filled with water on more than two (2) occasions. This resulted in re-evaluating of the filling work (G7) and additional foundation work required for the main structure. Depending on weather conditions, filling will be completed by next week, and formwork will be completed by the following week.

The secondary building, which is known as a “Ground Crew Building”, planned for a specialist firefighting ground crew has progressed well with brickwork completed up to ground level.

This project is being managed by local companies, Khubeka Construction and Principal Agent and Kantey & Templer.

-ENDS-

Related article: 

https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/2022/11/04/4-november-2022-media-release-state-of-the-art-regional-fire-station-expected-by-june-2023/ 

8 February 2023 Media Release:  Construction of the new Garden Route District Municipality Fire Station underway

16 March 2023 Public Notice: ALIENATION OF COUNCIL PROPERTIES

Notice is hereby given in terms of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act (No 56 of 2003) (MFMA), read with the Municipal Asset Transfer Regulations (R878 of 2008), the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (No 3 of 2000) as well as the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act (No 32 of 2000) that the Council of the Garden Route District Municipality in terms of resolution H.8 dated 07 November 2022 intends to alienate the following Council Properties.

Click on the link and download the full advertisement
Advert – Alienation of Council’s Properties

10 March 2023 Media Release: Load shedding relief: GRDM receives R1.6 million for generators from the WC Government

Load shedding relief: GRDM receives R1.6 million for generators from the WC Government

For Immediate Release
10 March 2023

Since load shedding is expected to continue and possibly increase going forward, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) approached the Western Cape Department of Local Government to apply for an Emergency Municipal Load Shedding Grant.

This action was taken in response to the GRDM Disaster Risk Reduction – capacity building plan, aimed at implementing emergency measures at district level to mitigate the impacts of load shedding on municipal services, businesses, and the economy.

In response, GRDM received R1.6 million to buy at least four (4) mobile 120 KVA diesel powered back-up generators. These will help local municipalities in the Garden Route.  The purpose of the new back-up power units would be to use at water and waste water sites.

GRDM also intends to assist local municipalities in need of Water Use Licence Applications/Renewals (WULA). Several municipalities have struggled to comply due to an overflowing or spilling sewer at pump stations – a direct result of not having backup energy at all their sites.

This project will help to temporarily reduce the effects of load shedding on basic services, especially water and sanitation.

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Relevant Documentation:
E200CS CANOPY – 120KVA CANOPY GENERATOR
Provincial-Gazette-Extra-2023-GJ_8719-Extra-Treasury-Funds-2023

13 February 2023 Media Release: GRDM rolling out R67 million Gwaing Road construction project

Media Release:  GRDM rolling out R67 million Gwaing Road construction project

For immediate release
13 February 2023

As the roads authority for divisional roads in the Garden Route district, the Western Cape Government Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) recently commissioned the upgrading and construction project of Divisional Road 1618 in Gwaing, George. Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is contracted through an agency agreement to implement certain roads projects on DTPW’s behalf.

The Gwaing Road (DR1618) is situated just outside George, near Blanco and connects to the R404, a regional route that connects George with Herold’s Bay, and the R102, situated between the Glentana intersection and the George Airport.

During the project, a section of the road will be upgraded from its start at the R404 to km 4.44 at the R102. The existing 4.44 km gravel surface will be upgraded to a bituminous ‘tarred’ surface.

In addition, improvements will be made to the storm water drainage system, along with other activities. These include the construction of concrete lined side drains, the installation of concrete storm water pipes, and the realignment of certain sections of the road to improve drainage and road safety.

The project is estimated at R 67-million and will last 18 months, starting in January 2023. As part of the GRDM EPWP program, approximately 44 jobs will be created during the construction phase.

During the period of construction, temporary road signs, delineators, flag operators, and speed controls will be utilised to ensure safe use while under construction.

“Road infrastructure is a critical connector to economic, education, health and social opportunities,” said Tertuis Simmers, Provincial Minister of Infrastructure. “The Western Cape is known for the quality and great maintenance of its roads and we remain committed to this.  We take cognisance of the inconvenience this project will have on the lives of our road uses and profusely apologise for this inconvenience. We would like to thank our road users for their patience during this time.” Simmers concluded.

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9 December 2022 Media Release: GRDM Integrated Human Settlements Strategic Plan to be enhanced

Media Release: GRDM Integrated Human Settlements Strategic Plan to be enhanced

For Immediate Release
9 December 2022

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) held its annual Integrated Human Settlements Strategic Plan Review Workshop at the Pine Lodge Conference Centre in George on 10 and 11 November 2022. Several municipalities in the district, internal stakeholders consisting of councillors, senior management from the various internal directorates and external stakeholders consisting of representatives from the Western Cape Department of Human Settlements, government agencies in the form of Social Housing Regulatory Authority and Housing Development Agency attended this two-day workshop. Own Haven, GRDM’s development and long-term management partner, also joined the work session on day two.

Alderman Jerome Lambaatjeen, Portfolio Chairperson of Strategic Services, opened the session and welcomed attendees, followed by GRDM Municipal Manager Monde Stratu, who opened his remarks with a quote from Charles Darwin, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent; it is the one most adaptable to change.” Stratu encouraged those present to plan properly in order to fulfil and accomplish Local Government’s objectives and purpose as outlined in Section 51 of the Constitution of South Africa. To change the past, attendees need to make a deliberate effort, he said, leaving them with some food for thought.

Joel Mkunqwana, GRDM Manager: Human Settlements, presented the current Human Settlement Strategic Plan, highlighting its strengths, weaknesses and opportunities.  He outlined the purpose of the workshop which is to determine whether substantive changes have been made in relation to the National Legislative and Programme context in order to consider the impact of these changes; to ensure that the Strategic Plan remains relevant to such changes as well as aligned with its administration.  In his remarks, he praised the Municipal Manager for his contribution and words of encouragement to planners, noting that he has set the bar high for them to reach.  As he closed, he stated that in the human settlement industry, a long-term approach and synergy are the keys to being most effective and making an impact.

Shehaam Sims, co-manager of the GRDM Human Settlement Section, delivered a comprehensive presentation titled, Pursuing an Enabling Environment for Affordable Housing Delivery. In her reflection, she reviewed all the foundational work that has been done so far, including the feasibility study being undertaken; all the applications that had been submitted to all the relevant bodies; the decisions that had been taken; the alignments made with the appropriate authorities; and the information shared on the various platforms. She outlined what has been achieved so far using the GRDM’s vision of becoming the leading, enabling, and inclusive district, characterized by equitable and sustainable development, high quality of life, and equal opportunity for all, as foundation.

This was followed by best practice and useful benchmark presentations by representatives from the Mossel Bay Municipality, GRDM IDP Section, the Western Cape Department of Human Settlements, the Housing Development Agency and GRDM Communication & Graphic Design Section. Topics under discussion and related impacts included:

  • Long term financial modelling and targeted use of municipal and state land for long term delivery;
  • Implementation of the Typology driven approach and model;
  • Incentives Framework: Comparative Income/Cost implications across the district context;
  • Human Settlements as one of the significant Chapters of the Integrated Development Planning (IDP) and Municipal Spatial Development Framework (MSDF);
  • Spatial Justice as define and advocate by the MSDF;
  • Latest on the strategic acquisition and leveraging of Municipal and State Land/Properties; and
  • Effective communication and consultative conduits.

The GRDM Social Housing Partners presented comparative social housing products on day two, highlighting the challenges and opportunities and useful lessons learned.  Representatives were very interactive and robust in their interaction throughout the two-day sessions, willing to learn from each other.  The questions and proceedings were documented and used to refine and update the current GRDM Human Settlements Strategic Plan, which will be reviewed annually in accordance with the Municipal IDP and MSDF.

Presentations made on day one and two can be accessed here:

https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/garden-route-annual-review-integrated-human-settlements-strategic-plan-workshop/

UPDATE ON THE CURRENT STATUS OF THE GRDM SOCIAL HOUSING PROJECT:

The first project that the Human Settlements department hopes to pursue, is at Erf 26823, Omega Street in George, for the potential development of Social Rental Housing. Social Rental Housing targets people whose monthly income is between R1850 and R22 000.

A service provider has been procured through the supply chain management process to conduct a feasibility study on the site. The service provider was appointed on 1 August 2022. Numerous activities have been conducted to determine whether the site and its infrastructure can support such development.

The soil conditions have been tested. Currently we await capacity confirmation of water, electricity and sanitation for a 4 storey walk up building, with units varying in arrangement from 1 bedroom to 3 bedrooms with communal areas and requisite parking areas.

A final feasibility report is scheduled to be available by the end of January 2023.

In the event the feasibility report declares the project feasible, the site will be handed over to the Social Housing partner who will prepare a concept plan for approval, followed by other required plans.

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05 December 2022 WELCOME TO THE GARDEN ROUTE AND KLEIN KAROO, SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST BEAUTIFUL AREA

WELCOME TO THE GARDEN ROUTE AND KLEIN KAROO, SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST BEAUTIFUL AREA

My warmest welcome goes out to all visitors to our region. Here you will find seven (7) municipalities with their respective local tourism offices keeping our region on the map. Areas are known as Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland. Each town has a myriad of unique offerings.

I’m honoured to boast that 19 of the 51 Blue Flag beaches in the country are located in our region this year. This means that we have the most Blue Flag beaches out of any other municipal area in South Africa! Our region’s beaches comply with strict standards of excellence in safety, cleanliness, amenities, environmental information, and management.

Let’s take a closer look at some of our areas. Zooming in on Hessequa, we see that all six (6) of its beaches have received Blue flag status. Additionally, they offer off-the-beaten-track experiences like Big 5 Game drives, forest glamping, fynbos gin, award-winning olive oil, cheese, wine, and aloe products.

Knysna is the most deserving winner of the KFM Best of the Cape Award known as the ‘Dorpie van die Jaar’. It is also the 19th most-loved destination around the world according to the 2021 Tourism Sentiment Index!

Plettenberg Bay has been nominated as a Whale Heritage Site and extensive work is being done by all stakeholders public and private with regard to their Marine and Ocean Economy.

Taking a glance at George, which is the central entry point to the region and boasts of the world’s top signature golf courses – it is indeed a golfers’ paradise!

With over 1100 meters of over-the-ocean zipline in the “Iconic Mossel Bay”, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the scenery. Zipline over the ocean at speeds of up to 80km/h and enjoy unparalleled views of the cliffs, ocean, and sea life. On the other side of the long stretch of mountain ranges, you’ll find the Klein Karoo which offers the largest cave system in Africa – the Cango Caves. Calitzdorp, located next to Oudtshoorn is also known as the port capital of South Africa – for good reason.

Our region is safe and offers wonderful forests along the coast with well-maintained boardwalks through thick forests, across gentle streams. Annually I also encourage visitors to also seek the little adventures offered by our region. One example is our region’s rich coffee culture, which offers a unique social setting and interaction between connoisseurs.

We promise you that tourism activities are right on your doorstep in this region.

To learn more about what we have on offer visit our official regional tourism website at www.visitgardenrouteandkleinkaroo.com

Finally, while enjoying your time with us, you need to be tolerant while travelling. Please obey speed limits; road rules; do not text or call while driving; do not drink and drive, and always wear a seatbelt. Save our 24/7 emergency call centre number if you find yourself in a troubling situation – 044 805 5071.

See you on the beautifully, diverse Garden Route and Klein Karoo!

Alderman Memory Booysen

Executive Mayor

Garden Route District Municipality

2 December 2022 Media Release: LGSETA conducts another due diligence visit at GRDM

LGSETA conducts another due diligence visit at GRDM

For immediate release
2 December 2022

As part of the Due Diligence process, a Local Government Sector Education Training Authority (LGSETA) delegation led by Mr E Saeke, Manager in the Office of the CEO, and Ms J September, Provincial Coordinator, visited the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) on Wednesday, 30 November 2022. The meeting follows GRDM’s application for a Discretionary Grant (DG) when the funding window for the period from 09 October 2022 to 01 November 2022 opened.

The Garden Route Skills Mecca Team supported the Training Team at the GRDM and coordinated the needs of the Skills Development Teams across all eight municipalities (including GRDM) and submitted a combined application for the following projects during the window:

  • Fire Fighter training
  • Water Reticulation
  • Water Purification
  • Minimum Competency Training
  • Bursaries for Unemployed Youth (18.2)
  • Bursaries for Employed Officials (18.1)
  • Artisan Training (Plumbing, Electrical, Bricklaying and Carpentry)

The Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) Coordinator, Dr Florus Prinsloo said: “The above combined collaborative approach demonstrates that the District Development Model is being implemented pragmatically within the Garden Route for the benefit of all residents”.

The meeting was chaired by Trix Holtzhausen, Executive Manager of Services, who thanked LGSETA for considering GRDM for these projects. “We would like to thank LGSETA for their past and ongoing support, as well as assure you that these projects will greatly contribute to alleviating poverty within our district.”

After careful evaluation and consideration, LGSETA selected the following projects for the due diligence visits:

  • Fire Fighter training
  • Water Training
  • Artisan Training (Plumbing, Electrical, Bricklaying and Carpentry)

These projects amount to R30 million and will benefit employed and unemployed youth.

Dr Florus Prinsloo, gave a brief overview of the Garden Route Skills Mecca and introduced the Garden Route Skills Mecca Technicians who assist with the drafting of LGSETA proposals.

GRDM Skills Development Coordinator Reginald Salmon and Senior Training Officer Angeline Naidoo presented the different proposals. As Skills Development Facilitators, both officials act as a link between the LGSETA and the Municipality.

Fire Chief Deon Stoffels also attended the meeting with Brian Afrikaner, who facilitates training at the fire service. Stoffels thanked LGSETA for considering GRDM for Firefighter training and explained that GRDM recently received accreditation from the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). ” LGSETA’s Fire Training will be the first of its kind in the district, and it will serve as a pilot project to prepare GRDM for more significant projects in the future,” he concluded

Several sites and training facilities in the George area were visited by LGSETA delegates.

After the formal presentations, the delegates from LGSETA were accompanied to by the Training Section and GRSM Technicians to the various sites and training facilities within the George area. The following areas were visited:

  • Outeniqua Water Works in Pacaltsdorp
  • African Skills Village in Thembalethu
  • Garden Route District Municipality Fire

Did you know:

What is Seta discretionary grant?

Discretionary grants are paid out at the discretion of SETA management for skills development projects linked to scarce and critical skills (sector priority occupations). Funding for discretionary grants is focused on Professional, Vocational, Technical and Academic Learning (PIVOTAL).

What is due diligence?

Due diligence takes place when the LGSETA initially approves a project and then needs to check if the municipality will be able to deliver the training. Training venues, training facilities where participants will be trained, and accreditation of the service provider are all checked.

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24 November 2022 Public Notice: PUBLICATION OF INFORMATION STATEMENT REGARDING THE RAISING OF EXTERNAL LOAN FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF GRDM REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT FACILITY OVER THE 2022/23 – 2024/25 MTREF PERIOD

24 November 2022

PUBLICATION OF INFORMATION STATEMENT REGARDING THE RAISING OF EXTERNAL LOAN FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF GRDM REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT FACILITY OVER THE 2022/23 – 2024/25 MTREF PERIOD

PURPOSE

To make public an information statement setting out particulars of the proposed debt, including the amount of the proposed debt; the purposes for which the debt is to be incurred and the particulars of any security to be provided for the financing of the construction of the GRDM Regional Waste Management Facility capital project as per Council’s approved 2022/23 – 2024/25 Medium Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework (MTREF) Capital Budget.

To invite the public to submit written comments or representations to council in respect of the proposed debt.

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